Oval Water Vessel with Relief Design of Two Dragons Chasing Flaming Jewels Amidst Swirling Clouds
Artist
Chinese
Datelate 18th century, Qing dynasty (1644–1911)
Mediumpale green nephrite with brown areas
Dimensions17.8 x 15.9 cm (7 x 6 1/4 in.)
ClassificationsJades
Credit LineGift of John and Maria Dirlam
Terms
Object number2007.239
DescriptionBowl with waves and water dragon. Bought from Hartmann.Label TextThe compact shape of this elegant vessel honors the form of the jade boulder from which it was made. The dark brown areas in the stone were used by the carver to emphasize the storm clouds swirling around the dragons. According to Chinese legend, dragons live in water but each spring rise up from lakes, rivers and oceans into the sky creating the storms clouds that bring rain to the rice fields. These benevolent creatures are bringers of good fortune and serve as intermediaries between heaven and earth. The first emperor of the Han dynasty (206 BCE–220 CE) claimed that his father was a dragon. From that time onwards, the dragon was used as a symbol of the Chinese emperor.ProvenanceJohn and Maria Dirlam, Southbridge, MA
On View
On view
Chinese
late 18th–early 19th century, Qing Dynasty (1644–1911)
Chinese
Qianlong period (1736–1795) of the Qing dynasty (1644–1911)
Chinese
early 18th century, Qing dynasty (1644–1911)